Richard Anuszkiewicz (1930-2020). Untitled, 1968. Acrylic on Masonite. 11-1/4 x 11-1/8 inches (28.6 x 28.3 cm). Signed, ...

Description

Richard Anuszkiewicz (1930-2020)
Untitled, 1968
Acrylic on Masonite
11-1/4 x 11-1/8 inches (28.6 x 28.3 cm)
Signed, dated, and inscribed on the reverse: To Tito / Richard Anuszkiewicz / 1968

Property from a Distinguished California Collection

PROVENANCE:
The artist;
Private collection, "Tito," gift from the above;
Larsen Gallery, Tucson, Arizona;
Private collection, Miami, Florida;
Shannon's Fine Art Auctioneers, Milford, Connecticut, April 26, 2018, lot 41;
Acquired by the present owner from the above.

Richard Anuszkiewicz, a pioneering American artist, born on May 23, 1930, in Erie, Pennsylvania, revolutionized the art world with his Op Art creations. He passed away on May 19, 2020, at his Englewood, New Jersey home, just days before his 90th birthday.

Anuszkiewicz's career was marked by a relentless exploration of how fundamental art elements could manipulate perception. He delved into color experiments, crafting geometric paintings that seemed to vibrate with radiant light. His compositions, though hard-edged, exuded a spiritual quality through their repetition of shapes and lines and harmonious color interplay.

At the forefront of the Op Art movement, Anuszkiewicz's work predated the very term "Op Art." n 1957, he moved to New York City, initially facing rejections from galleries. However, in 1959, his first solo show at the Contemporaries gallery marked a turning point. Museum of Modern Art's founding director, Alfred H. Barr Jr., purchased two of his paintings, propelling him into the art world spotlight. His participation in the landmark 1965 Museum of Modern Art exhibition, "The Responsive Eye," solidified his status as a leading figure in this groundbreaking movement.

Anuszkiewicz's artistic process was more conceptual than technical, rooted in mathematical ideas and manifesting results through his work. His deep understanding of color, learned under Josef Albers at Yale, became central to his artistic journey.

Beyond painting, he explored sculpture and continued to exhibit globally, receiving accolades such as the Lee Krasner Award in 2000. His art, timeless and captivating, continues to inspire generations, securing his place as a revered figure in contemporary art.


More information about Anuszkiewicz, Richard Joseph. See also: Anuskiewicz, Richard, Anuszkiewicz, Richard, Richard Joseph Anuszkiewicz Artist.



*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

View all of [Property from a Distinguished California Collection ]